When creamy, garlicky dreams meet pasta perfection, you get the Ultimate Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni. This dish is a cozy comfort food favorite that wraps tender chicken bites and ridged rigatoni pasta in a luscious garlic butter sauce, elevated by a touch of cream, herbs, and golden parmesan. It’s the kind of meal that makes your whole house smell like a five-star kitchen.

What sets this dish apart is its ability to balance richness with flavor depth. The seared chicken adds a caramelized bite, while the garlic butter sauce mingles with pasta to create an irresistible creamy coating. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking to impress someone special, this recipe delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients.

What Kind of Rigatoni Should I Use?

Rigatoni is already a superior pasta shape when it comes to holding sauce, but bronze-cut rigatoni will make an even bigger difference. Its rough texture grips the buttery sauce and cheesy bits more effectively. If you can’t find bronze-cut, regular rigatoni will still do beautifully. Avoid overcooking it—al dente is key for keeping the pasta firm enough to handle the creamy sauce without turning mushy.

Ingredients for the Ultimate Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Chicken Breast – You’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized cubes. Searing gives them a beautiful golden crust and locks in juiciness.

Rigatoni Pasta – This hearty, tube-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto every bit of that luscious garlic butter sauce.

Garlic – Fresh garlic is non-negotiable. It infuses the butter and cream with its signature pungent warmth.

Butter – Use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness. It creates the flavor foundation of the dish.

Heavy Cream – Adds luxurious richness that balances the garlic intensity and melds everything into a silky sauce.

Parmesan Cheese – Finely grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding savory, nutty depth.

Olive Oil – Helps with searing the chicken and adds a hint of fruitiness.

Italian Seasoning – A blend of dried herbs that complements the garlic and chicken without overpowering the sauce.

Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors into harmony.

Chopped Parsley – Optional, but recommended for a pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

How To Make the Ultimate Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep and Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for the sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add them to the hot pan and sear until golden on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan. Allow the cheese to melt completely, making sure the sauce stays smooth. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Return the cooked rigatoni and seared chicken to the skillet. Gently toss until everything is well coated in the creamy garlic butter sauce. Let it cook together for another minute to marry the flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a bit more Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every comforting bite!

How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet when the sauce is silky and the chicken still juicy. To elevate it, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan or a drizzle of garlic oil just before serving. Serve it in warmed bowls to help retain the sauce’s luxurious texture.

Leftovers store beautifully. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to bring back the original creaminess. Avoid microwaving too long to keep the chicken tender.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

The ultimate companion to soak up that creamy sauce. Go for a crispy, buttery loaf with minced garlic and parsley.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad brings contrast and freshness with its creamy dressing, romaine crunch, and zesty notes.

Roasted Green Beans

Oven-roasted with a hint of lemon zest, they cut through the richness and offer a satisfying side.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Quick, nutritious, and flavorful—it blends well with the buttery tones of the main dish.

Caprese Salad Skewers

Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a refreshing starter.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil and finished with a sprinkle of parmesan, this roasted veggie side adds crunch and umami.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Roast until golden with a touch of balsamic vinegar—a crispy, tangy counterbalance to the pasta’s richness.

Sparkling Lemon Water

Sometimes the best pairing is a beverage! Refresh your palate with a chilled lemon-infused sparkling water.

Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this garlic butter chicken rigatoni, don’t stop here! Explore these creamy and comforting pasta dishes that bring both ease and indulgence to the table:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich, beefy twist on pasta night.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a one-skillet meal that delivers big flavor.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you want cheesy, meaty comfort in every bite.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a decadent twist on a classic.
One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta if you want a smoky kick with your creamy sauce.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add a dash of red pepper flakes? I’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own.

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